First Act

As we finally reached the main entrance, I let out a breath I hadn't realized I was holding. The crisp morning air hit my face, and I was grateful for the distraction it provided.

"Be safe," my mother said.

With one last hug, I bid my mother farewell. I make my way to the mansion's courtyard, the servants' astonished expressions were unmistakable. Their wide-eyed stares followed me, and I could almost feel their whispers circulating through the air. I braced myself, trying my best not to falter in my act as Sir Thomas Hamilton.

"Good morning, Lord Thomas," one of the maids greeted with a polite curtsy.

"Lord Thomas, it's a surprise to see you back so soon," said the butler, bowing respectfully.

Our old gardener, who had known my brother and me since we were children, looked at me with a mix of curiosity and suspicion. "Is there something you require, Sir Thomas?"

I took a moment to gather my composure, replying in a deeper voice, "I have returned to attend to some matters"

I didn't wait for his reply due to my nerves and moved forward, trying my best not to bite my lip. I felt like my heart was going to burst out of my chest.

Why did I agree to this again?!

As I continued my journey, I noticed some lingering glances and hushed conversations among the staff. I held my head high, maintaining my act of stern countenance.

When I reached the stable, our stablehand, a grizzled man named Alfred, looked at me with a surprise, "Lord Thomas, you're back so soon? What happened to Storm, your prized steed?"

Storm? Damn. That is my brother's horse.

My heart raced, and I tried to think on my feet, "Ah, Storm," I said with feigned regret, "unfortunately, he fell ill during our journey and... and didn't make it."

I am so sorry, Storm! I need to kill you so suddenly in my imagination.

Alfred's eyes widened in shock. "I'm terribly sorry to hear that, Lord Thomas," he replied sympathetically.

I nodded, trying to keep my composure. "Yes, it was a great loss. But worry not, I'll be taking Maximus, my sister's horse, for the time being. She won't mind."

Alfred raised an eyebrow, clearly taken aback by the sudden change of horse. "If you say so, Lord Thomas. Maximus Is a fine steed as well."

As I attempted to mount Maximus, the weight of the armor proved more cumbersome than I had anticipated. I awkwardly tried to swing my leg over the saddle, but the metal plates seemed to conspire against me. My face flushed with embarrassment as I fumbled, feeling more like a clumsy recruit than a seasoned knight.

To make matters worse, the stablehand, Alfred, was watching me with concern. I cleared my throat, trying to salvage some dignity.

"Ah, you know, Alfred," I said with a sheepish smile, "it's been a while since I've ridden Maximus. My sister's horse was quite hard to please. Just need to... get used to it again"

Alfred nodded, reluctantly. "Of course, Lord Thomas. It can be a bit hard, especially if you're not used to the extra weight."

I attempted to hoist myself up once more, this time with more determination. After a few more awkward moments and a lot of wiggling, I finally managed to find my balance on Maximus's back.

"There we go!" I said, trying to sound confident, though my voice may have betrayed a hint of relief. "All set!"

"You look quite the knight, Lord Thomas"

I couldn't help but laugh at his compliment, knowing that beneath the armor, I was still the same Lady Emily who had once stumbled over her own dress at a ball.

"Yes, well, appearances can be deceiving," I replied with a wink. "I'll do my best to look the part."

Alfred offered me a respectful nod. "Safe travels, Lord Thomas. If you need anything, you know where to find me."

"Thank you, Alfred," I replied with a nod of my own. "Your assistance is much appreciated."

As I rode away from the stables, I couldn't shake the nerves that gripped me. I waved back at my mother, trying my best to maintain an air of confidence despite the nerves within me.

As I approached her, she looked at me with pure worry..

"Are you sure you'll be alright, dear?" she asked, her eyes scanning me from head to toe.

I nodded, trying to reassure her. "Yes, Mother, I'll be fine. I've trained for this, and I have Thomas's guidance. Besides, I'll be back before you know it."

She placed a comforting hand on my shoulder. "Just promise me you'll be careful, Emily. Your father and I are so proud of you, but your safety is our utmost concern."

"I promise," I replied, "I'll do everything I can to ensure my safety."

A small smile crept across my mother's lips. "Then you should go now."

"I love you, Mom," I said, feeling a surge of gratitude.

Her eyes softened, "I love you too my only daughter"

With a final smile, I turned and made my way out of our mansion. Upon reaching the outskirts of the capital, I was greeted by the familiar hustle and bustle of the city. The lively atmosphere seemed to intensify my anxiety.